Smoking Loon Wines Review- I was Missing Out!
By Guest Wine Chix  ~ Carmen Micheli

Guest Wine Chix ~ Carmen Micheli

Believe it or not, a wine does not have to be expensive to be enjoyable.  I have seen Smoking Loon Wines in the grocery store several times and passed them over in fear that the “under $9” price point could be a possible sign of flaw.  Oh man, was I missing out!

At our January Woman’s Wine Council (WWC) tasting, I had the opportunity to review five of Don Sebastiani & Sons “Smoking Loon Wines”: 2008 Chardonnay, 2009 Pinot Noir, 2009 Merlot, 2009 Cabernet, and a 2009 Old Vine Zin.

I was absolutely amazed at the beauty, balance, and versatility of the 2009 Pinot Noir.  A very light garnet color with immediate notes of fresh red berries and pomegranate on the nose, this Pinot is definitely a show stopper.  I loved it as an appetizer wine paired with Wiens Estate olives (made by Wiens winemaker with red wine, and Italian seasoning) and sage cheese, though I’m confident it would be killer with fellow WWC Judee Smith’s BBQ’d Ribs.

For me, the big winner of the lot belonged to the 2008 Chardonnay.  The delicate scent of honey,lemon zest, and tropical papaya had my interest immediately.  The subtle French Oak aging added just the right amount of complexity without being too overpowering on the palate.  WWC member Sue Richter’s creamy Mushroom Risotto and Laura Plant’s Hominy, green chili casserole were both excellent companions for this unique Chardonnay.  What a couple of exciting finds!  And… they are available in most grocery stores for under $10!

Salut!